Since 1978, federal law has required the state to spend a minimum of 15&#37; of its federal bridge funding on bridges which are not on the federal-aid system. As a majority of these off-system bridges are on the local road system, this funding has been of tremendous importance to the townships. With federal and state aid, the local match for projects on these bridges has been 5%. Due to the Match Money Program and the Local Road Funding Assistance Program, the township’s share is usually one-third of that 5%. This program has been vital to all County’s local transportation systems, as we have over 224 bridges throughout my county alone.

Now Congress is currently discussing eliminating this program. This would have a major impact on the townships and the local transportation system, as non-federal aid eligible bridge projects would have to be funded 100% locally. Even with aid from the Road Commission’s Local Road Funding Assistance Program, many projects would be economically unfeasible for most townships or at the very least pose a significant financial burden. Without funding, bridges would have to be closed instead of repaired or replaced, thereby increasing travel time and distance, inconveniencing residents and businesses and delaying emergency responders.

We would therefore urge you to contact Senators Stabenow and Levin, and U.S. Representative Miller, regarding the importance of continued funding for off-system bridges. As the matter is under current discussion, we would suggest you call or email the legislators. They may be contacted at: